Josie Campbell

Communications & Public Relations Professional

I've worked on a broad range of projects during my 15 years in marketing and PR, including brand projects, publicity and publications. Here are links to some recent the projects where I've taken a key role.

Rebrand PR – THE EDGE to Auckland Live

The rebrand from THE EDGE to Auckland Live went live on 16 May 2014. This was much more than introducing a new name and logo, it represented a new business direction. THE EDGE had been a confusing, non-commercial name, connected to venue management. Auckland Live is about cultivating live arts and entertainment and making Auckland an incredible place to live and visit - for audiences and performers. The rebrand was a major focus for me throughout 2014.

In 2013, THE EDGE re-entered the world of Joint Ventures, taking risk on bringing one off shows and theatrical seasons to Auckland. These shows are now farmed out to external publicists as my focus has shifted to brand and organisation communications, but I had some big successes on the publicity front.

The Illusionists - The world's most successful magic show, this was the largest show I'd worked on with a huge publicity schedule and a very successful bottom line.

Pam Ann - the show was Plane Filthy and the media schedule had to be carefully negotiated. We got everyone we wanted to do a story.

Aotea Square Ice Rink - launching the first outdoor ice rink in Auckland was simple in 2012. Getting publicity in 2013 required more creativity - thus Onesies on Ice was born and the media launch was a hit.

One of my career highlights has been doing publicity for legendary Broadway star Mandy Patinkin, who is not only a brilliant stage performer and a lovely man, but the actor behind one of my all time favourite characters in film - The Princess Bride's Inigo Montoya. Yes, I got to hear him say the famous line.

PR advice and local knowledge

I've spent a lot of time providing advice and support to international show promoters and publicists and national companies - often wrangling photographers and guests for red carpets, creating guest lists of media and social influencers and generating content to increase the profile of shows while showcasing Auckland Live's messaging. Last year I worked with New Zealand Opera to inject glamour and youth to their Don Giovanni opening night, and also created a behind the scenes video with young opera star Amelia Berry. I produced and directed the video, as well as conducting the interview. Filming and editing was by Benj Brooking.

Construction

When I started at THE EDGE, we were still connected to Auckland Conventions and were responsible for asset management. One of my first projects was managing communications for the two year, $77 million Aotea Square redevelopment - I learned a lot about concrete and hoardings, as well as stakeholder relations. I also manage communications for the ASB Theatre refurbishment which included a complete makeover for the auditorium and the installation of the high tech Constellation System which adjusts the buildings acoustics. I learned enough about acoustics to be able to have intelligent conversations with journalists and the feedback out the aesthetics and acoustics have been overwhelmingly positive.

Netball

I managed media and logistics for all Netball New Zealand events including The National Bank Cup and the transition into the ANZ Championship and a new era of paid player contracts.

Running the media centre for World Netball Championships 2007 was a career highlight - less brilliant because the Silver Ferns came second. The highs of sport are very high, but second place is pretty painful.

The best part of the role was watching the profile of the sport and players reach new heights and be regarded as true athletes.